Bed Bugs Basics & History

Bed bugs
probably received their common name from their habit of feeding on
humans while they sleep in their beds. Bed bugs have also been
called "red coates," "mahogany flats," and "wall-lice."

Bed Bug History

Bed bugs have been a household pest issue for more than 3,300
years, dating back to ancient Egypt. They were first brought to the
United States by early colonists, where they thrived for many
decades. However, by the 1950's, bed bugs had been all but
eradicated in the developed world, thanks to the availability of
new pest control products, coupled with the widespread use of
vacuums and washing machines which helped to control the spread of
infestations in living spaces.

Several factors led to the
resurgence of bed bugs beginning in the late 1990's; increased
international travel, more targeted pest control products and
methods and a lack of public awareness about pest prevention
methods.